Formerly Burges Blue Gum Cafe being demolished, cnr Pryor Street and Main Road, Eltham, Sept. 1960. A new two story brick building was erected on site approximately 1961 for Mr Millet - visible in 1962 aerial photos Film poster is advertising The Blob (1958) and "I married a monster from outer space" (1958) which both appear to have been screened in Australia in 1960 and 1961 1922 Originally opened in October 1922 by Miss Barber, it was known as the Blue Gum Soda Fountain. It was named after a prominent Bluegum which stood on the property. 1928 It was taken over by W. Jim Burges in 1928 and by 1929 was known as the Blue Gum Café but also as the Blue Gum Tea Rooms from around August 1931. 1935 In August 1935 Jim Burges sold the Blue Gum Café to Mr and Mrs L.H. Herring of Kallista. The Herrings maintained the name Blue Gum Café 1938 In July 1938 the Herrings sold the business as the Eltham Confectionary And Soda Fountain to Misses Robinson and Pringle effective from August 1st. 1939 In April 1939, Misses Robinson and Pringle sold the Eltham Confectionary And Soda Fountain to Mr Herbert Eugene Borner and Miss Edith Florance Borner, (brother and older sister), formerly of Yarra Glen and it became known as H.E. Borner’s Shop. It is not known when the Borners sold the shop. Both were recorded there in the 1949 Electoral Roll. However, it is noted that Herbert Borner of Blackburn, late of Eltham, died as a result of an accident in August 1952. Sister Edith married railway employee John Stephens in in 1962. She died December 1978. So it is most likely they sold it possibly sometime between 1950 and 1951. 1950 The ownership between 1950 and 1954 is unknown but at some time during that period, the business was acquired by John Henry Millett and his wife, Esther. In 1949 they are listed in Footscray North and are recorded in the 1954 Electoral Roll as shopkeeper, Main Road, Eltham. It is possible they purchased it from the Borners between 1950 and 1951. It was advertised in the 1955 Easter Gymkhana Program as The Blue Gum, J. Millet, Proprietor. c. Aug. 1960 OLD LANDMARK GOES EDHS_05531 ELTHAM’S GROWTH HAS BEEN RAPID IN RECENT YEARS Possibly Diamond Valley News c.August 1960 Perhaps the most famous landmark in Eltham's' business section disappeared last Wednesday when the towering blue gum in Pryor Street at the rear of Main Road shops was felled. The tree, stated to be more than 80 feet high, was the one for which the adjoining café was named, when that business was Eltham’s only provision store, long before the turn of the century. Mr. J. Millett, who now owns the property on which the tree stood, deeply regretted its removal, but was mindful of the need for expansion in the business area. The "Old Blue Gum" was removed by Mr. A. Wilson, expert tree feller, from Heidelberg. Its proportions might be assessed by these facts – it took a gang of experienced men two days to completely fell and clear the tree, and, falling sections being brought down by cable tipped electricity wires on the opposite side of Pryor Street. Sep. 1960 The original store was demolished in September 1960 to make way for a new two-story brick building which became known as Millett’s Foodland. Aerial imagery shows that this was erected by 1962. 1968-1985 The name Blue Gum did not disappear but was reincarnated a few doors up some years later as the Blue Gum Milk Bar at 1006 Main Road (present-day Vyve Beauty & Wellness building on the northern side of Pryor Street one premises up from Westpac bank) “As a lifelong resident of the Diamond Valley, Ian Chesser (Chess) is a well-known face within the local community due to his involvement with numerous sporting clubs, and for being the “kid from the Blue Gum Milk Bar” many years ago” “From the time he was a child, Ian would assist his parents Graeme and Shirley at the Blue Gum Milk Bar working behind the counter.” "Ian Chesser - Barry Plant - Eltham." realcommercial.com.au https://www.realcommercial.com.au/agent/ian-chesser-1704490 Accessed 18 Nov. 2025. - Research by Peter Pidgeon, EDHS, May 2026Colour photograph copy of originalColour photograph copy of original. Possibly donated by Peter Bassett-Smith, noted as Sept 19601960, blue gum milk bar (eltham), butcher, coca cola, eltham shopping centre, eltham shops, estate agency, fire, four n twenty, i married a monster from outer space (film 1958), main road eltham, milk bar, noon pies, peters ice cream, pryor street, staffs general store, summer, the blob (film 1958), eltham, shops, blue gum café, blue gum milk bar, blue gum soda fountain

John Gall Mainlands father John Mainland Snr. was born in 1835 in the town of Lerwick in the Shetland Isles off the coast of Scotland. At the age of fifteen, he migrated to the South Island of New Zealand where he trained as a carpenter/builder after settling in Oamaru where he soon became a prominent citizen. He was for many years the Chairman of the Hospital Board and Captain of the fire brigade (which he founded). Mary Gall, Johns wife had also migrated with her family from Glasgow Scotland in 1837 at the age of thirteen to New Zealand where she had met and married John Mainland and in 1866 John Gall Mainland the second eldest of their six children was born. After John Gall Mainland Jnr. had trained as a jeweller and watchmaker he also developed itchy feet and left New Zealand for Australia in the late 1880s eventually settling in Walhalla Victoria where he became chief of the fire brigade for ten years before moving to Warrnambool. Gertrude Emily born 1872 met and married John G Mainland after he had increased his skills to become an optician. In Jan 1892 opened a business in Liebig St Warrnambool the sign outside his premises read, (J Mainland Watchmaker Jeweler and Optician). While he was establishing his business and profession John had set about contributing to the cultural and business life of the Warrnambool community. One of his many community commitments was with the scouting movement where he became a King Scout and an original charter member of the Warrnambool Rotary Club.The clock was made by an early Warrnambool business identity who had also made an important contribution to the local community over the years through his involvement with Rotary as a founding member the fire brigade. Having an item that was made by John Mainland during the early development of Warrnambool and in such good condition is in itself significant, it's provenance is well established and it is another piece of local history that further tells a story of Warrnambool's cultural life and early development in the 1890s. Wall Clock, circular in a wooden case Roman numerals on a twelve hour dialName of maker to dial face "J Mainland & Co Warrnambool"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, warrnambool clock maker, john mainland, john gall mainland, mary gall, clock maker, optician, jeweller

The plans were used for the construction of the lifeboat ‘Warrnambool’, which began 15th September 1909 and was completed almost 12 months later 1st September 1910. It was built at the Government Dockyard in Williamstown, Victoria, along the lines designed by Great Britain’s Royal Lifeboat Institution, and included whaleback decks fore and aft, mast and centreboard, and rudder and tiller hung from the sternpost. It could be propelled by both sail and oar. At that time Captain Ferguson was Chief Harbour Master and Mr Beagley was the foreman boat builder. Mr Beagley built the lifeboat with his fellow workmen. The boat was described as “… a fine piece of workmanship and does credit to her builders and designers…” It had all the latest improvements in shape, disposition of weight and watertight compartments, and it had space for a large number of people in addition to the crew. It appears that 'H Meiers' whose signature was on the plaque that was found concealed in the hull, was involved with the building of the lifeboat. His signature and the dates of the start and finish of the boat’s construction are pencilled on the raw timber 'plaque' found in the hull in the early 1990s when the lifeboat was being restored. It is interesting that the ‘Melbourne Directory’ of 1911, published by Sands and MacDougal, lists McAuley and Meiers, boat builders, Nelson Place foreshore, between Pasco and Parker Streets, Williamstown, (Victorian Heritage Database, ‘Contextual History, Maritime Facilities’), It is quite possibly the business of the person whose name is inscribed on the lifeboat plaque. Flagstaff Hill’s documentation also mentions that the keel was laid at ‘Harry Myers, boat builders, Williamstown, Melbourne’ – the name ‘Myers’ can also be spelled ‘Meiers’, which could be the same person as the Meiers in “McAuley and Meiers” (as mentioned in genealogy lines of Myers). The new lifeboat, to be named ‘Warrnambool’ was brought to town by train and launched at the breakwater on 1st March 1911 using the Titan crane (the old lifeboat built in 1858, was then returned to Melbourne in 1911). This new lifeboat was stationed at Warrnambool in a shed located at the base of the Breakwater, adjacent to the slipway. A winch was used to bring it in and out of the water. The lifeboat ‘Warrnambool’ was similar in size to the old lifeboat but far superior in design, build and sea-going qualities such as greater manoeuvrability. The ‘self-righting, self-draining design was “practically non-capsizeable” and even if the boat overturned it would right itself to an even keel and the water would drain away. The hull was built of New Zealand Kauri, using double diagonal planking, laid in two layers at right angles, with a layer of canvas and red lead paint between the timbers to help seal the planking. It has “… plenty of freeboard area, high watertight spaces between the deck and bottom… through which pipes lead…” The backbone timbers were made of Jarrah. The lifeboat Warrnambool was one of several rescue boats used at Port Fairy and Warrnambool in the early 1900s. In late 1914 the Warrnambool lifeboat and crew were used to help find what was left of the tragic wreckage of the Antares and were able to discover the body of one of the crewmen, which they brought back to Warrnambool. Between 1951 and 1954 the lifeboat was manned under the guidance of Captain Carrington. He held lifeboat practice each month on a Sunday morning, to comply with the Ports and Harbour’s request that lifeboats be manned by a strong and competent crew, ready for action in case of emergency. In the early 1960’s it ended its service as a lifeboat and was used in Port Fairy as a barge to help dredge the Moyne River, bolted to the Port Fairy lifeboat. Flagstaff Hill obtained the Warrnambool in 1975. In 1984 it was on display at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, Warrnambool. On 23rd May 1990, she was lifted from the water and placed in a cradle for restoration. The name ‘WARRNAMBOOL could be seen faintly on the lifeboat before it was restored. It was during the restoration that Flagstaff Hill's boat builder discovered the 'plaque' inside the hull. A copy of the blueprint plans has the name “V.E.E. Gotch” printed on it. His advertisement in Footscray’s ‘Independent’ newspaper of Saturday 11th May 1901 states he is “Principal and Skilled member (Naval Architect) to the Court of Marine Inquiry of Victoria and holds classes for naval architectural drawing and arithmetic.” The line drawing is significant for its connection with the lifeboat WARRNAMBOOL. The lifeboat is very significant to local and state history for its use in the lifesaving rescues of seafarers, particularly in Lady Bay. It was part of the local rescue equipment. It gave a half-century of service to the local community as a lifesaving vessel, including its involvement in retrieving the body of a shipwrecked crew member of the ANTARES. Line drawing in black ink and pencil on rectangular parchment or waxed linen. Drawing has diagrams of three profiles of a vessel, with measurements and connecting pencil lines on the left quarter. The plan is for the lifeboat named “Warrnambool”, which was built in Melbourne and completed in 1910. Old blue copies of the Lifeboat plan are archived also.“LIFE BOAT / FOR / WARRNAMBOOL” “Scale, One Inch to One Foot” “ “Length as shown 30’ – 8” “ “Breadth “ “ 8’ – 6 ½ “ “ “Depth “ “ 3’ – 4 ¾” “flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, lifeboat, warrnambool lifeboat, boat plans, lifeboat plans, boat construction, boat building, line drawing, plan for lifeboat, life boat, life boat 'warrnambool', clinker design, 1910 lifeboat, life saving equipment, shipbuilding

This banner was one of five banners gifted to the Beechworth Chinese community in recognition of their support of the Hospital and Benevolent Asylum in 1875, from the Carnival Committee. These banners had been purchased in China by a social envoy from Beechworth then presented to the Chinese community during the Beechworth Fine Arts Exhibition in May of that same year, by Donald Fiddes, President of the Ovens District Hospital. The Burke Museum's Chinese Collection presents the history of Chinese settlement in Beechworth from 1856 and its involvement in local community affairs in the second half of the 19th century. In settling in the area they formed their own community with distinctive Chinese cultural traditions, forming their own 'camps' with laid out streets, housing a Temple, Chinese Theatre and restaurants, hotels, stores, gambling houses and dwellings. Members of the Chinese community took an active interest in town affairs and were generous donors to the appeal to build the Ovens District Hospital in 1856/7. The vibrant colours and dynamic graphics of the silk embroidered Chinese banners were a highlight of Beechworth Charitable processions that took place in the main street. Two of the Chinese banners were conserved for the Burke Museum in 2006 by Carol Campbell of Phoenix Conservation Services with funding from Victoria’s Heritage Grants. In 2015, with the enormous support of the Copland Foundation and fundraising activities by the Friends of the Bur Museum Committee, conservation of the third banner was undertaken by Artlab Australia in Adelaide. The banners display traditional Chinese textile techniques and are visually beautiful and very rare and are considered of local and national significance, with the potential to be deemed internationally significant.Multi panelled banner with embroidery and applied design motifs on front. Back panel is painted design of two men. The front panels have been constructed using strips of various weaves and colours of silk that have been embroidered or had a design applied prior to the overall construction of the piece. The embroidery is predominantly gold work with both plyed and floss silk threads. Silk macrame fringe and tassels to central panel and padded lotus and bowl motif hanging tassel from side panels. Velvet lettering applied to front "CHINA" CHINA /beechworth, burke museum, chinese, benevolent asylum, ovens district hospital, beechworth carnival processions, carnival, processions, beechworth chinese community, beechworth fine arts exhibition, donald fiddes

This banner was one of five banners gifted to the Beechworth Chinese community in recognition of their support of the Hospital and Benevolent Asylum in 1875, from the Carnival Committee. These banners had been purchased in China by a social envoy from Beechworth then presented to the Chinese community during the Beechworth Fine Arts Exhibition in May of that same year, by Donald Fiddes, President of the Ovens District Hospital. The Burke Museum's Chinese Collection presents the history of Chinese settlement in Beechworth from 1856 and its involvement in local community affairs in the second half of the 19th century. In settling in the area they formed their own community with distinctive Chinese cultural traditions, forming their own 'camps' with laid out streets, housing a Temple, Chinese Theatre and restaurants, hotels, stores, gambling houses and dwellings. Members of the Chinese community took an active interest in town affairs and were generous donors to the appeal to build the Ovens District Hospital in 1856/7. The vibrant colours and dynamic graphics of the silk embroidered Chinese banners were a highlight of Beechworth Charitable processions that took place in the main street. Two of the Chinese banners were conserved for the Burke Museum in 2006 by Carol Campbell of Phoenix Conservation Services with funding from Victoria’s Heritage Grants. In 2015, with the enormous support of the Copland Foundation and fundraising activities by the Friends of the Bur Museum Committee, conservation of the third banner was undertaken by Artlab Australia in Adelaide.The banners display traditional Chinese textile techniques and are visually beautiful and very rare and are considered of local and national significance, with the potential to be deemed internationally significant.Multi panelled banner with embroidery and applied design motifs on front. The front panels have been constructed using strips of various weaves and colours of silk that have been embroidered or had a design applied prior to the overall construction of the piece. The embroidery is predominantly gold work with both plyed and floss silk threads.beechworth, burke museum, chinese, benevolent asylum, ovens district hospital, beechworth carnival processions, carnival, processions, beechworth chinese community, beechworth fine arts exhibition, donald fiddes

This banner was one of five banners gifted to the Beechworth Chinese community in recognition of their support of the Hospital and Benevolent Asylum in 1875, from the Carnival Committee. These banners had been purchased in China by a social envoy from Beechworth then presented to the Chinese community during the Beechworth Fine Arts Exhibition in May of that same year, by Donald Fiddes, President of the Ovens District Hospital. The Burke Museum's Chinese Collection presents the history of Chinese settlement in Beechworth from 1856 and its involvement in local community affairs in the second half of the 19th century. In settling in the area they formed their own community with distinctive Chinese cultural traditions, forming their own 'camps' with laid out streets, housing a Temple, Chinese Theatre and restaurants, hotels, stores, gambling houses and dwellings. Members of the Chinese community took an active interest in town affairs and were generous donors to the appeal to build the Ovens District Hospital in 1856/7. The vibrant colours and dynamic graphics of the silk embroidered Chinese banners were a highlight of Beechworth Charitable processions that took place in the main street. Two of the Chinese banners were conserved for the Burke Museum in 2006 by Carol Campbell of Phoenix Conservation Services with funding from Victoria’s Heritage Grants. In 2015, with the enormous support of the Copland Foundation and fundraising activities by the Friends of the Bur Museum Committee, conservation of the third banner was undertaken by Artlab Australia in Adelaide. The banners display traditional Chinese textile techniques and are visually beautiful and very rare and are considered of local and national significance, with the potential to be deemed internationally significant.Multi panelled banner with embroidery and applied design motifs on front. The front panels have been constructed using strips of various weaves and colours of silk that have been embroidered or had a design applied prior to the overall construction of the piece. The embroidery is predominantly gold work with both plyed and floss silk threads.beechworth, burke museum, chinese, benevolent asylum, ovens district hospital, beechworth carnival processions, carnival, processions, beechworth chinese community, beechworth fine arts exhibition, donald fiddes

This banner was one of five banners gifted to the Beechworth Chinese community in recognition of their support of the Hospital and Benevolent Asylum in 1875, from the Carnival Committee. These banners had been purchased in China by a social envoy from Beechworth then presented to the Chinese community during the Beechworth Fine Arts Exhibition in May of that same year, by Donald Fiddes, President of the Ovens District Hospital. The Burke Museum's Chinese Collection presents the history of Chinese settlement in Beechworth from 1856 and its involvement in local community affairs in the second half of the 19th century. In settling in the area they formed their own community with distinctive Chinese cultural traditions, forming their own 'camps' with laid out streets, housing a Temple, Chinese Theatre and restaurants, hotels, stores, gambling houses and dwellings. Members of the Chinese community took an active interest in town affairs and were generous donors to the appeal to build the Ovens District Hospital in 1856/7. The vibrant colours and dynamic graphics of the silk embroidered Chinese banners were a highlight of Beechworth Charitable processions that took place in the main street. Two of the Chinese banners were conserved for the Burke Museum in 2006 by Carol Campbell of Phoenix Conservation Services with funding from Victoria’s Heritage Grants. In 2015, with the enormous support of the Copland Foundation and fundraising activities by the Friends of the Bur Museum Committee, conservation of the third banner was undertaken by Artlab Australia in Adelaide.The banners display traditional Chinese textile techniques and are visually beautiful and very rare and are considered of local and national significance, with the potential to be deemed internationally significant.The banner has a narrow fuchsia embroidered top border, a wider embroidered panel depicting 2 dogs with embroidered Chinese text and a larger lower panel with the embroidered text “PRESENTED TO THE CHINESE OF BEECHWORTH BY THE COMMITEES OF THE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS (missing) THAT TOWN IN COMMEMOR (missing) OF THE CARNIVAL 1873” The 2 lower panels have narrow decorative borders decorated with mirrors and extensive embroidery. There is an additional embroidered tab running along the right hand edge. The bottom edge has a wide knotted fringe. The back is lined with fabric decorated with a painted scene. Refer Attachment 1 quote ARTLAB AustPRESENTED TO THE CHINESE / OF BEECHWORTH BY THE / COMMITEES OF THE PUBLIC / INSTITUTIONS THAT / TOWN IN COMMEMOR / OF THE CARNIVAL 1873beechworth, burke museum, chinese, benevolent asylum, ovens district hospital, beechworth carnival processions, carnival, processions, beechworth chinese community, beechworth fine arts exhibition, donald fiddes

This banner was one of five banners gifted to the Beechworth Chinese community in recognition of their support of the Hospital and Benevolent Asylum in 1875, from the Carnival Committee. These banners had been purchased in China by a social envoy from Beechworth then presented to the Chinese community during the Beechworth Fine Arts Exhibition in May of that same year, by Donald Fiddes, President of the Ovens District Hospital. The Burke Museum's Chinese Collection presents the history of Chinese settlement in Beechworth from 1856 and its involvement in local community affairs in the second half of the 19th century. In settling in the area they formed their own community with distinctive Chinese cultural traditions, forming their own 'camps' with laid out streets, housing a Temple, Chinese Theatre and restaurants, hotels, stores, gambling houses and dwellings. Members of the Chinese community took an active interest in town affairs and were generous donors to the appeal to build the Ovens District Hospital in 1856/7. The vibrant colours and dynamic graphics of the silk embroidered Chinese banners were a highlight of Beechworth Charitable processions that took place in the main street. Two of the Chinese banners were conserved for the Burke Museum in 2006 by Carol Campbell of Phoenix Conservation Services with funding from Victoria’s Heritage Grants. In 2015, with the enormous support of the Copland Foundation and fundraising activities by the Friends of the Bur Museum Committee, conservation of the third banner was undertaken by Artlab Australia in Adelaide. The banners display traditional Chinese textile techniques and are visually beautiful and very rare and are considered of local and national significance, with the potential to be deemed internationally significant.Multi panelled banner with embroidery and applied design motifs on front. The front panels have been constructed using strips of various weaves and colours of silk that have been embroidered or had a design applied prior to the overall construction of the piece. The embroidery is predominantly gold work with both plyed and floss silk threads. beechworth, burke museum, chinese, benevolent asylum, ovens district hospital, beechworth carnival processions, carnival, processions, beechworth chinese community, beechworth fine arts exhibition, donald fiddes

This series of 3 photographs were taken in 2007. They were taken to show the new protective case for the Burke Museum world globe, made by Kurt Wagner. The three photographs show different angles of the globe and case.This series of photographs is of social significance to the people of Beechworth and the surrounding shire. The case was made by local woodworker Kurt Wagner and therefore shows the bond between the Burke Museum and the community of Beechworth through their collaboration. Additionally, the photographs provide an interesting perspective on late 2000s museum interior design as it is possible to see how this part of the museum was set up in 2007.Coloured rectangular photograph printed on photographic paper.5567.1 / 5567.2 / 5567.3 globe, 2007, burke museum, beechworth, kurt wagner, protective case, world globe, woodworking, museum styling, 2000s, community involvement

This article publicises a suggestion to raise money for Diamond Valley Community Hospital by asking the parents of children born at the hospital to make a donation each year on the child's birthday.An example of the community involvement in the local hospital.Copy of page from newspaper.diamond valley community hospital, dvch, fundraising

Desley Elkhom and Ralph Rudd, the owners of Sutherland (once an orphanage) run a Sunday market to raise money for Rotary. Neisha Forbes email 1/4/2017: "In this photograph is of my brother, Ralph Rudd and his partner Desley Elkhom, they were setting up a market at Sutherland Homes site – a community market trying to bring on local produce, and involve the Plenty CFA to raise money for equipment.  It ran for about 2 years, but sadly as they did not have indoor cover, it either rained on the Sunday, they had the stalls, but did not get the people, or had the people and no stalls.   It stopped about a 18 months ago.  It was at 14 Yan Yean Road, Diamond Creek.  At the intersection of Yan Yean Road and Diamond Creek Road, the old Sutherland Homes property."News clipping, black text, colour image. Text incomplete.

News article about Tom Vickers and his Commonwealth Recognition Award for Senior Citizens awarded in 2000. The article outlines Tom's involvement in the Greensborough area over the past 60 years.Tom Vickers was a prominent member of the community and a local pharmacist.Digital copy of newspaper clipping.vickers family, tom vickers

The Banyule Banner is published bi-monthly by Banyule City Council to advertise upcoming events in the City of Banyule and to report on past events. This edition contains reports on the Banyule budget and community involvement in local projectsA record of events within the City of Banyule.28 pages, colour illustrations. 2 copies.banyule banner, banyule council

During 1941-43 it was considered imminent that Japan's army may attempt to invade Australia. Anticipating Japanese air and submarine attacks, blackout restrictions were introduced and air raid warning instructions issued. This air-raid siren was installed on the roof of the G.P. Motors (originally Winchester & Rodwell Garage) during World War 2. This item reflect our past. World War II continues to evoke strong memories. Items which were part of this time are reminders of the local community's involvement.An air raid siren on a round base. It has a brass trumpet and a handle attached to pull from the ground.On base - MAX-DIA -422,15mm PLATE 10 HOLES J. WIPFLI GATIC AUSTRALIA MANUFACTURER DIES TOOLS PLASTICS MELBOURNEww11 air-raid-siren communications military

Summary: The article reports the ceremonial start of construction for the new Great Ryrie Primary School, marking a major milestone for the merging communities of Heathmont, Ringwood, and Southwood Primary Schools. The event was attended by Bayswater MP Gordon Ashley, Maroondah Mayor Les Willmott, along with parents and staff from the three schools. Mr Ashley praises the patience and commitment shown by the three school communities and emphasises involving children in the ceremony, noting that the school exists for them and without them it is “just bricks and mortar.” The article highlights that the new school will offer strong opportunities for local children and will be an important asset for the community (Co-Pilot 11/7/2026)Photo Caption: Prep pupils Caroline, Valentina, and Caitlyn give Bayswater MP Gordon Ashley a hand during the turning of the first sod at the new primary school.

The newsletter reports on local council initiatives, community programs, environmental activities, and cultural events taking place across Nillumbik Shire in late 2004. It emphasizes community participation, environmental sustainability, infrastructure improvements, and local cultural life. Key Points Council Projects and Infrastructure: Updates on road maintenance, capital works, and improvements to local facilities across the shire, Continued development of community infrastructure such as recreational facilities, parks, and public spaces, Council planning initiatives aimed at supporting sustainable growth and maintaining rural character. Environment and Sustainability: Programs encourage residents to protect local waterways, conserve native vegetation, and control invasive weeds, Environmental initiatives involve Landcare groups, wildlife monitoring, and sustainability education, Residents are encouraged to participate in community environmental projects and conservation activities. Community Services and Programs: Promotion of community services, volunteer programs, and educational opportunities through local centres. Support for families, seniors, and young people through recreational and learning programs. Community engagement remains a priority for council planning and activities. Arts, Culture and Events: The newsletter highlights local arts initiatives, exhibitions, festivals, and performances. Programs support local artists and cultural organisations, reinforcing the area’s reputation as an artistic community. Tourism and Local Economy: Promotion of local tourism, wineries, markets, and cultural attractions in the region. Efforts to strengthen the local economy and regional identity through tourism and community events. Also includes interviews with Councillors, 2004 Nillumbik Sports Awards and calandar of events. council newsletters, nillumbik news, nillumbik shire council, warwick leeson, peter yates, bo bendtsen, helen coleman, bill penrose, greg johnson, howard bulmer, bronnie hattam, michael young, living & learning nillumbik, sally hansen, julie french, julie graham, steven wells, robert hayley, greg champion, ev hales, marjorie lapworth, jan kelly, robina summers, janet mason, karen coulton, elizabeth gardner, matthew dean, madison caulfield, nicole pless, mathew munro, sten nigol, christopher armet, rachel khaw, melinda bpuer, david parsons, anton woods, erin lorenzini, zoe carr, troy sandley, marrissa filipou, ben cukier, nillumbik reconciliation group, montsalvat, eltham craft & produce market, eltham festival, nillumbik artists open studios, hurstbridge high school, family services, kangaroo ground preschool, alan marshall short story award, tom dell'anno, gayle knight

Administrative records of A. A. Briggs, Warrnambool accountant, real estate agent, insurance and commission agent donated to the Warrnambool and District Historical Society, source and date unknown byadministrative records of a Warrnambool businessmanNine ledgers and four folders of documents held in A3 archival boxesHandwritten administrative records and personal papers of nine ledgers and four foldersa.a. briggs warrnambool, victorian alliance, atlas assurance company, warrnambool hospital, warrnambool permanent building societya.a. briggs warrnambool, victorian alliance, atlas assurance company, warrnambool hospital, warrnambool permanent building society

Our Eltham - Artistic Recollections by Jim Connor, EDHS newsletter No. 236 October 2017 The Eltham Cemetery Trust, established in 1858, selected the existing burial site at Mount Pleasant Road on high ground overlooking the village of Eltham. The first recorded burial took place in 1861 in the Church of England section. Headstones depict the names of many early and well known local families. In recent years the Trust has encouraged the use of creative artistic elements within the natural bushland environment in their landscaped grounds adjoining Montsalvat. Their ongoing vision has been to offer the local communty a fresh and unique relationship to the Cemetery. On Thursday 21st September 2017 their latest commissioned art project titled ‘Our Eltham - Artistic Recollections’ was unveiled. It is a collection of panels collaboratively created by artist Nerina Lascelles and ceramicist Linda Detoma. The project was designed and constructed by Leigh Wykes using Australian stone with ironwork by Neil Carter. All contributors to this installation, located adjacent to the car park near Metery Road, are residents of the Eltham area. Our Eltham - Artistic Recollections is described as a celebration of life in the Shire since the opening of the Eltham Cemetery more than 150 years ago. Depicting scenes of life in and around Eltham, the collection offers deeper connections to the Eltham area through a series of visual narratives of Eltham’s past, environment and community. The project involves the artistic interpretation by Nerina Lascelles of historic and current images symbolically intermixed with locally indigenous flowers and plants. These are displayed on thirty-one ceramic panels by Linda Detoma, mounted within an iron fence by Neil Carter, upon an attractive rock wall constructed by Leigh Wykes. The Eltham District Historical Society is pleased to have contributed to this project. Russell Yeoman and Jim Connor from our Society have collaborated with Liz Pidgeon, Local and Family History Librarian at Yarra Plenty Regional Library on a selection of photographs, many from the Shire of Eltham Pioneers Collection we hold in partnership, located at Eltham Library. We also provided information on the images chosen. The Eltham Cemetery Trust has produced a booklet about this artwork, which can be viewed on the Cemetery website at: http://www.elthamcemetery.com/oureltham/#1 Our Eltham - Artistic Recollections is a significant monumental installation, which will encourage visitors to come to view this outstanding combination of local creative skills, set within the attractive grounds of the Eltham Cemetery. jim connor collection, eltham cemetery trust, montsalvat, our eltham artistic recollections, 2017-09-21

Produced by Contour Consultants Australia Pty Ltd on behalf of Dallas Price Homes Pty Ltd as part of the planning process for redevelopment of the former Eltham Shire Office site at 895 Main Road. In 1963 the Shire of Eltham purchased the Shillinglaw property of approximately 2 acres in Main Road, Eltham for the widening of Main Road and as a site for new Council offices. This land, which contained the Shillinglaw Cottage (c1878-80), was the remaining section of the Shillinglaw family holding that originally comprised 30 acres, being Lot 90 of Holloway's 1851 subdivision. Eltham Council intended to demolish this cottage, but through extensive community action it was saved, funds were raised, and it was relocated to the current site adjacent to the Eltham Library. The new Eltham Shire Offices opened in 1965 were designed to ensure retention of the three Italian Cypress trees that were located outside the Shillinglaw Cottage. In 1971 the building was extended at the southern end to provide additional space, including for the Eltham Library and Council's Engineering Department. Renovations were undertaken to the offices during 1987. The Victorian State Government commenced to restructure local government in 1994, which resulted in the establishment of the Shire of Nillumbik and the cessation of the Shire of Eltham. This new Nillumbik Shire Council was headed by government appointed commissioners, who decided in 1995 to put the former Eltham Shire offices on the market. Eventually in June 1996 the property was sold for $1.1 million and the building was subsequently demolished. A planning application for the site was then submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council in September 1996 for construction of a 24-hour service station, convenience store, cafe/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. There were many objections to this proposed development and in controversial circumstances a planning permit was granted by the Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners. After protracted actions involving a planning panel and a planning advisory committee, established by the Minister for Local Government, the proposal was eventually rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme. In December 1997 the purchaser withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract. While there have been a number of possible development proposals considered by subsequent Nillumbik Shire Councils, this site has remained vacant since July 1996. TIMELINE (Prepared by Jim Connor, Eltham District Historical Society- March 2018- Based on press, council and personal records) June 1996 - Eltham Shire offices sold to Dallas Price Homes for $1.1 million. July 1996 - Shire office building demolished against community's wishes. Council claimed building riddled with asbestos. September 1996 - Planning application submitted to Nillumbik Shire Council to construct on the site a 24 hours Shell service station, convenience store, Hungry Jacks café/takeaway food premises, a retail facility and community facility. 213 objections and petition of over 1400 signatures received. Minister for Planning and Local Government orders an independent investigation into valuation and sale. 9 October 1996 - Permit granted by Nillumbik Shire Council commissioners, in controversial circumstances. A Planning Special Committee consisting of 3 commissioners and 3 community representatives considered 32 community objections. One commissioner declared a potential conflict of interest so only 2 commissioners were able to vote. After hearing all objections, the community representatives moved a foreshadowed motion to refuse a permit. The commissioners then closed the meeting, formerly opened a council meeting (for about a minute) and approved the application. October 1996 - Community members appealed planning decision to Administrative Appeals Tribunal. November 1996 -Minister for Planning and Local Government Robert McClelland calls appeal in and directs MT to refer this 'major policy issue' to the Governor in Council. February 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) established to consider submissions. March 1997 - New council elected with five councillors. April 1997 - Three of the five new councillors vote to fight Commissioner's decision to grant a permit. April 1997 - Planning panel (Dimity Reed and Margaret Pitt) conducts hearings at Nillumbik Shire offices. June 1997 -Planning panel rejected Dallas Price Homes proposal as being 'totally inappropriate' for the site and recommends the site be rezoned for 'public purposes'. July 1997 - Dallas Price Homes threatened to sue Council and individual councillors. October 1997 - Report released of an Advisory Committee (Paul Jerome) established by the Minister for Planning and Local Government. Committee considered Dallas Price Homes proposal and an alternative concept plan proposal by Council for a gallery, workshop, offices and cinema community-based development. Advisory Committee recommended Dallas Price Homes proposal be rejected as not satisfying the requirements of the planning scheme and recommended further testing of the financial viability of Council's proposal. December 1997 - Dallas Price Homes withdrew from the contract of sale, just prior to Council announcing a withdrawal from the contract, which expired on 28th November and was not renewed by either side, after previously being extended twice pending a decision by the Minister. Council had to pay developer $58,000 for demolition costs. February 1998 - Dallas Price Homes application rejected by Planning and Local Government Minister. October 1998 - Nillumbik Councillors suspended and an Administrator appointed (until March 1999). The demolition of the former Shire of Eltham offices and proposed sale and development driven by the Commissioners for Nillumbik Shire Council brought the community together in substantial protest at the infrigement of ratepayers democratic say in local government and ciommunity assets combined with protests about inappropraite development of Eltham's Gateway. This issue led to the formation of the Eltham Community Action Group which still operates strongly today (2023) on behalf of the community to ensure appropriate development within the community.895 main road, commissioners, dallas price homes, development application, eltham hub, hungry jacks, nillumbik shire council, re-zoning, shell service station, town planning, eltham gateway, eltham gateway action group, eltham shire offices, shillinglaw cottage, shillinglaw farm, shillinglaw trees, jim connor collection

Edendale Farm is Nillumbik Shire Council's environment centre situated in Gastons Road, Eltham between the railway and the Diamond Creek. The homestead on the property was built in 1896 and is of historical significance, being the subject of a Heritage Overlay under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme. The Edendale property was originally part of an extensive land purchase in 1852 from the Crown by pioneer Eltham farmer Henry Stooke. He initially purchased 51 acres and later expanded his holdings by purchasing another three adjacent Crown allotments extending northerly from Josiah Holloway's Little Eltham subdivision. Despite clearing the land, Stooke did not build on this property, choosing to live on his property "Rosehill" at Lower Plenty. In 1896 Thomas Cool, Club Manager of the Victoria Coffee Palace in Melbourne purchased 7 acres of the original Stooke land and built the house now known as Edendale. Cool did not farm the land, instead using it as a gentleman’s residence, retiring to Eltham at weekends. In 1918 he purchased an additional 7 acres but in 1919 he sold the property. Later owners included J.W. Cox, the Gaston family and D. Mummery. In the 1980s the Eltham Shire Council purchased the site for use as a Council depot, but this use did not proceed. Subsequently, it was used as the Council pound. The Edendale Farm Pet Education and Retention Centre was established in the summer of 1988/1989 and was set up to replace the existing dog kennels with a high standard pet retention centre. The design style of the building was established to compliment the features of the existing house. It was equipped with 10 retention pens, a veterinary room and a pet education area where school children and other interested parties learnt about pet care procedures. It was later developed into a community farm and was run by an advisory committee and in 2000 it became an Environment Centre. In early 2006 an advisory committee was established for the development of a master plan for future development at Edendale Farm. The committee included Russell Yeoman, a former long-time shire planner and founding member of the Eltham District Historical Society. At the time of filming the Master Plan and future for Edendale was about continuing to develop Edendale as a centre of environment learning and looking at expanding displays and school program, running a lot more of life-long learning and workshops around sustainable living. Covered under Heritage Overlay, Nillumbik Planning Scheme. Published: Nillumbik Now and Then /​ Marguerite Marshall 2008; photographs Alan King with Marguerite Marshall.; p101 A sharp turn from busy Wattletree Road by the railway line, brings a surprise. Only 1.4 km from Eltham’s centre, sheep feed, blissfully unaware of the hectic suburban activity so close by. At the entrance to the 5.6ha Edendale Farm is another surprise. A work of art that looks like huge tree trunks transformed into bowler and top-hatted men. The Fences Act 1968 by Tony Trembath with Mark Cain and John Doyle, 1996, is classified by the National Trust of Australia as having Regional Significance. The title refers to a government act on disputes between neighbors over the placement of fences and boundaries. This takes a ‘wry swipe’ at a community divided by trivial squabbles. It also celebrates making do with limited resources.1 Further along on the left, the office wall is decorated with a massive Eltham Copper Butterfly, designed by Robert Tickner and made by school children with used plastic bottles and other waste material. Nillumbik Council runs Edendale as an Environmental Education Centre, to help preserve and enhance the local environment. As early as 1988 the former Eltham Shire Council realised Edendale’s importance in meeting people’s needs, particularly of children, to enjoy farmland. The centre, with the Eltham North Reserve to the north - including remnant bushland and open parkland - makes up the major part of the public open space for this area. The council considers this area will become increasingly important to the local community for recreational use.2 Educational programs aim to encourage community involvement to ensure the long-term rehabilitation and protection of natural bushland areas. Edendale is used by people of all ages - from school children to adults - for environmental programs and workshops, as well as for recreation, to enjoy the domestic animals and to picnic. Edendale is also home to the Environmental Works staff who manage reserves and roadsides and support Nillumbik Friends environmental groups. The Friends propagate plants at the nursery, which grows indigenous plants and sells these to the public.3 The centre demonstrates the sustainable living the farm teaches, with features like solar hot water and drive lighting and for the fireplace, logs of recycled cardboard. Edendale has had a varied history as a dog pound and even as a retreat for Thomas Cool, Club Manager of the Victoria Coffee Palace in Melbourne. His single-storey weatherboard house built in 1896, which still stands, was grander than most homes in Eltham. Although such buildings were common in many other parts of Melbourne, Eltham’s poverty and remoteness did not encourage such construction. The Victorian rectangular-shaped house, with a corrugated iron roof and veranda, has elegant large rooms, leadlight windows, ceiling roses, two bay windows and ornately carved wooden fireplace surrounds. Cool bought seven acres (2.8ha) from pioneer Eltham farmer Henry Stooke’s 200 acre (81ha) farm, which he had bought from the Crown in 1852. In 1918 Cool bought an extra seven acres (2.8ha) but in 1919 sold the estate to farmer John Cox. In 1933 Cox sold Edendale to Mrs Elizabeth Gaston, after whom the road leading to the centre was named. The property was owned by several Gaston family members, who called it Edendale, then by a police constable, Douglas Mummery, until the Shire of Eltham bought it in 1970. Oddly Edendale was known as Mummery’s for almost 20 years, although Mummery owned it only for a short time.4 The shire used Edendale as a dog pound until amalgamation with other municipalities in 1996. The pound then moved to the Yan Yean Road, Plenty site, which had been used by the former Diamond Valley Shire Council. To the west and north the centre is bounded by Diamond Creek and on the east by the Melbourne-Hurstbridge railway line. Part of the Research creek forms the centre’s southern boundary.This collection of almost 130 photos about places and people within the Shire of Nillumbik, an urban and rural municipality in Melbourne's north, contributes to an understanding of the history of the Shire. Published in 2008 immediately prior to the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7, 2009, it documents sites that were impacted, and in some cases destroyed by the fires. It includes photographs taken especially for the publication, creating a unique time capsule representing the Shire in the early 21st century. It remains the most recent comprehenesive publication devoted to the Shire's history connecting local residents to the past. nillumbik now and then (marshall-king) collection, edendale farm

CWA Tawonga 1946 - 1988 collection of its written history. The C.W.A. aimed to improve the health, welfare and education of women and children in the country. The book gives examples of all activities the members were involved in over the years and their involvement with other CWA groups in the North East of Victoria. Through the photos it also gives a good example of women's fashions over the years.History of CWA Tawonga by Clare Roper, President, founding member and local resident. Women in Tawonga were mostly on farms and in 1946 felt remote after WWII as it affected available workers and the well being of children. The Country Women's Association improved the living conditions and well being of members in the Kiewa Valley community.Scrap book with block handwritten and coloured heading. Cover: Centre middle has a coloured photo of 10 ladies standing below a CWA logo. Covered with clear plastic. Consists of photos, newspaper clippings and typed sheets."CWA Tawonga from 1946 collected by C. Roper" - top of front pagecountry women's association; clare roper; tawonga;

The Mt Beauty tennis club was formed in the late 1940's. The number of players has varied as has the number and type of courts.Mt Beauty Tennis Club has been a part of Mt Beauty for many years involving many people. The history of the club identifies local people and the changes in the town and district regarding the popularity of tennis and tennis equipment.Paper records for the Mt Beauty Tennis Club. Minute book 1977 - 1983, 1983 - 1985, 1983 - 1990, 1991 -1999. Treasurer's book 1987 - 1996. Book tennis Competitions 1991, 1992, 1993, Rules and loose papers 1980's - 2006 and 3 types of cards Dinner Dance at the Workmen's Club, Picnic Cabaret at the Community Centre, and 1983 Tennis Club ball at Community Centremt beauty; tennis club; sport

Tawonga and Mt Beauty are in the Kiewa Valley and are attractive tourist destinations. The local clubs such as 'Apex' advertised and conducted programs to involve the locals and tourists and to raise moneyIn the 1960s and 1970s the Kiewa Valley held Carnivals during the Xmas school holidays. The posters list the events and entertainment for the community and visitors. Noticeably different to events held in the 2020s.1.Two Yellowed papers (posters) each titled Tawonga Sports Day - 1972 and 1977 2. Mount Beauty Gigantic Carnival 1960 and another yellowed paper (poster) advertising Mt Beauty over the Xmas Holidays (no date)tawonga sports day program, mt beauty carnival, holiday programs

Schools of this era were very proud of their identity. This was particularly so in country based ones. Schools in isolated or semi isolated regions provided social cohesion and pride and community involvement that was not so inherent in schools located in larger cities. The exception here being the Greater Public Schools. Mrs Beverly Johnson nee Davis designed the school badge.This badge was worn by a local girl, who has the spirit shown by many pupils from the Mount Beauty High School that the identity of belonging to a Kiewa Valley High School is a treasured part of life for them in this regional area. Mount Beauty High School badge made of brass. The front is coloured enamel depicting a scene of sky, mountains, grass and river. It is surrounded on four sides by the words Excelsior, Mount Beauty, High, School. The outside edges are decorated with gold colored fernsExcelsior, School, Mount Beauty, High On flip side K. G. Luke Melb.school badge, hat, lapel badge, high school memorabilia, brass badge

Local base hospital and involvement with community groupsBoard of management showing appreciation of service by the community to the Hospital.Handwritten calligraphy on paper, black script and some colour details. Water damaged and stained. Three of signatures are considerably fadedWarrnambool & District Base Hospital 1945 to the members of "3YB" Ladies Ideal Club Warrnambool. Signed Stewart Lindsay, E.A. Wright, R Philpott and Vice President3 yb, ladies ideal club 3yb, warrnambool base hospital, warrnambool and district base hospital, certificate of appreciation, stewart lindsay, e a wright, r philpott